Cerf Yacht

Appearing like an apparition, Cerf exudes beauty from within. With lush green hillside plantations and dazzling white sand beaches, there’s more to this little island than meets the eye. Find a safe anchorage and come ashore to discover what lies behind this tropical oasis. There are no roads, so you can really kick off your sandals and feel the sand between your toes as you stroll between exotic shrubs and vegetation.

Once a thriving coconut industry, the remains of the coconut groves can still be seen and now form part of the rich habitat for the giant land tortoises and flying foxes which roam here. The southern side of the island is home to a small inhabitant population, which boasts one or two celebrity residents including the yacht designer Phil Southwell. There’s not much here in the way of shops but there is a small art gallery and colonial chapel.

Head over to the northern side of the island and back into the water to experience some superb snorkelling. Situated at the entrance to Saint Marie National Marine Park, the coral reef, which surrounds this end of the island, is home to over 150 species of tropical fish. Expect to be swimming amongst the likes of clown fish, crabs, sea urchins, starfish and octopus.

If all this seems a bit energetic then pay a visit to the islands resort bar for a tropical cocktail or two and relax listening to the sound of the breeze in the trees and gentle waves on the beach.

Mooring

At anchor

Things to do

Swimming, snorkelling and diving are the main attractions of Cerf but take the opportunity to explore the rest of the island too and find the small art gallery and colonial chapel at the southern end.